100919 – World Status Report

When traveling on behalf of UT Dallas, set up your institutional safety net and prepare for an emergency as a standard step of all your travels.  Find more information in the Traveler Best Practices webpage.

The risk information in this report is retrieved from U.S. Department of State, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the World Health Organization, and other professional sources as listed in the post. It provides general guidance for UT Dallas travelers.

Please note the revision date (mmddyy) of this report, printed on the title of the post, and go to the direct sources listed for the most up-to-date information.  The information in this report may change without prior notice.

Avoid Nonessential Travel

Conflict and Terrorism

• Iraq – GC.CA – Avoid all travel to Iraq due to a continued volatile, unpredictable, and potentially dangerous security situation. If you are in Iraq, consider departing by commercial means if it is safe to do so. Since October 1, 2019, protests have been taking place in Baghdad and in other cities in Iraq. Clashes between protestors and security forces have caused multiple casualties. Security forces have used tear gas, water cannons, and live ammunition to disperse crowds. Curfews and other security restrictions can be imposed in other regions across the country and can change on short notice. Expect road closures, including those leading to the Baghdad International Airport, and areas to be sealed off, including the Green Zone. Restrictions to internet and social media may occur.
• Sudan – GOV.UK – The FCO advise against all travel to South Kordofan and Blue Nile states, due to continuing internal conflict. There have been reports of flooding in Blue Nile state and a cholera outbreak. If you are travelling to Blue Nile you should follow health advice on cholera and monitor developments.

Take Enhanced Precautions

Conflict and Terrorism

• Mali – UN News – Two separate attacks on Sunday against the organization’s Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) left one peacekeeper dead and four others injured.
• Pakistan – GC.CA – There is a threat of terrorism in Pakistan and the security situation is fragile and unpredictable. Several terrorist groups are present and operate in Pakistan. Due to the high risk of attacks, which can vary from day to day, heightened security measures are in effect. Attackers frequently target Pakistani government institutions, public areas and places frequented by foreigners such as airports, hotels, markets, transportation hubs, schools, Western style fast food outlets, restaurants, religious sites and popular trekking sites. Large cities such as Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore and Peshawar are particularly vulnerable to indiscriminate attacks, including bombings. Avoid crowded places such as pedestrian promenades, shopping malls, open markets, restaurants and places of worship. Remain extremely vigilant at all times, keep a low profile and exercise caution, particularly in areas regularly frequented by foreigners. Monitor local news reports and follow the instructions of local authorities. Civil aviation in Pakistan, including aircraft and facilities, has been the target of bombings and other attacks. Verify flight and airport operation details before travelling, and remain aware of the security situation on routes to and from airports. Only stay in hotels that have stringent security measures in place, including metal detectors; however, no location should be considered free of risks.
• Russia – U.S. Department of State – Terrorist groups, transnational and local terrorist organizations, and individuals inspired by extremist ideology continue plotting possible attacks in Russia. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas. Also, Scotland take on Russia in a UEFA Euro 2020 qualifying match in Moscow on Thursday 10 October. If you’re travelling to Moscow for the match, check out our dedicated information and advice page for travelling fans in addition to this travel advice.
• Rwanda – GOV.UK – The eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) remains unstable, and the situation in Burundi has also become volatile with increased tensions and violence related to the ongoing political crisis, including deteriorating relations with Rwanda. There’s a continuing risk that the security situation in the region could deteriorate rapidly. If you’re travelling near the DRC or Burundi border, you should remain alert to the possibility of military incursions, stray bullets and/or artillery fire entering Rwanda.
• Saudi Arabia – GOV.UK – Saudi Arabia has been leading coalition air strikes in Yemen since 2015, following a request for support from President Hadi to deter continued Houthi aggression. Clashes along the Saudi Yemeni border continue, resulting in both military and civilian casualties.

Crime and Social Unrest

• Guinea Bissau – U.S. Department of State – Violent crime is common in Guinea Bissau.  Aggressive vendors, panhandlers, and occasionally criminals target foreigners at the Bissau airport and other crowded areas, especially Bandim Market in the center of the capital. Local police lack the resources, capacity, and training to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents. The country has been beset by chronic political and institutional dysfunction for decades, and there is the potential for violence.
• Papua New Guinea – GOV.AU – Take extra security measures when travelling to the Sugu Valley, Southern Highlands province. Tribal fighting in the area has resulted in a number of deaths and injuries.

Demonstrations

• Ecuador – GC.CA , GOV.AU , GOV.UK   – On October 3, 2019, a nationwide strike was called by transportation unions to protest against economic measures imposed by the government. Demonstrations in Quito and other cities across the country have developed into nationwide protests and civil unrest. Roadblocks are severely disrupting transportation nationwide and large portions of the Pan American Highway remain closed. Several groups of protesters have called for a massive strike on October 9. There are reports of looting and violence in all major centers. Local authorities announced the temporary closure of all schools in the Sierra region, including Quito. The government has also declared a nationwide state of emergency. Curfews could be imposed without notice. Acts of violence have occurred and could continue. Police have used tear gas to disperse crowds. If you’re travelling in the affected areas expect a heightened security presence, avoid crossing road blockades, even if they appear unattended, allow extra time to reach your destination, follow the instructions of local authorities, monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations. Monitor official sources via the ECU 911 emergency services, be wary of unverified, unofficial information. Updates on transport disruption are available on the ECU 911 website and from the Municipal Transport Agency for Quito. Some international flights have been affected in recent days. You should check your flight status with your airline before travelling to the airport. For live updates on all flights, monitor the Quito International Airport and Guayaquil International Airport websites (in Spanish).
• Greece – GOV.UK – Due to planned strike action, there may be delays at the Athens ports of Piraeus, Rafina and Lavrio on Wednesday 2 October 2019. You should check for updates with your ferry company if you are travelling on a route to or from Athens ports. On Thursday 3 October, planned strike action may affect or close the metro and local rail services to and from Athens International Airport. You should leave more time for your transfer to or from the airport using alternative methods, such as buses or taxis.
• Haiti – GC.CA , GOV.AU – Violent protests and widespread civil unrest have been taking place in Haiti since September 2, 2019 due to ongoing political instability. In addition, the country is experiencing water, food and fuel shortages. Many businesses and banks are closed, making it difficult to access cash and commodities of all kinds. Burning barricades are disrupting traffic in the main streets of Port au Prince. Clashes between protestors and security forces have occurred. Police have used tear gas and live ammunition to disperse crowds. Additional protests are expected over the next few days. Acts of violence could happen without notice. Avoid all unnecessary travel to Haiti. If you are in the country limit your movements, avoid crossing road blockades, even if they appear unattended, plan to have adequate water, food and fuel supplies.
• Hong Kong – U.S. Department of State , GC.CA , GOV.UK , GOV.AU – Since June 2019, large scale and smaller political demonstrations have taken place in various areas of Hong Kong, including MTR stations, shopping malls, and at Hong Kong International airport. While protests are generally peaceful, they sometimes become violent and disrupt transportation across Hong Kong. Police have used a variety of crowd control measures, including the deployment of tear gas, rubber bullets, and water cannons. On October 4, the government invoked the Emergency Regulations Ordinance to ban face masks at public gatherings. Any protests that take place without a permit are considered illegal.
• Iraq – UN News , GOV.UK , – GOV.AU – Large violent protests have taken place since 1 October. Security forces have used tear gas, water cannons and live ammunition against protesters. Roads in Baghdad, including the main route to the airport, may be closed. Authorities in Iraq have been urged by the UN human rights office, OHCHR, to allow citizens to exercise their right to freedom of expression after the security forces opened fire on mass anti government protests which began earlier this week.
• Spain – GC.CA – General strikes and demonstrations may occur in Catalonia due to the ongoing political situation in the region. These may be called on short notice. In the event of a general strike, contact your transportation carrier to find out if the situation could affect your travel plans. The potential for mass demonstrations and transportation disruptions is likely to increase following the sentencing of individuals involved in the 2017 unilateral declaration of independence. The verdicts are expected to be rendered between early and mid October 2019.

Entry and Exit Requirements

• China – GOV.UK – The British Embassy in Beijing has received reports of a recent increase in cases where entry to China under the visa waiver on arrival scheme has been refused, which may be linked to previous travel history. You should note that entry to China under a visa waiver is not guaranteed, Chinese border officials have the right to refuse entry without warning or explanation. You should contact the Chinese Embassy before your proposed trip for further information. If you’re unsure about your eligibility for a visa waiver, you’re advised to apply for a visa before travelling.
• Laos – GOV.UK – Visa conditions change regularly. For the most up to date information, contact the nearest Lao Embassy or Consulate.
• New Zealand – GOV.UK – Some visitors and transit passengers can travel to New Zealand without a visa if they get an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) before they travel.  Find more information to determine your eligibility at the New Zealand NZeTA website.
• Saudi Arabia – GOV.UK – Tourists from eligible countries can apply for a tourism visa online through the fast and easy to use evisa portal at the Visit Saudi website ahead of their trip, or upon arrival in Saudi Arabia through visa kiosks at immigration. Tourists from other countries should apply for a consulate visa through Saudi embassies and consulates.

Health

• Bangladesh, Guam, Marshall Islands, Nepal, Palau, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka – CDC – Dengue is an ongoing risk in many parts of Asia and the Pacific Islands. Travelers to areas of risk should protect themselves by preventing mosquito bites.
• Germany – ECDC – Extensively Drug Resistant (XDR) K. Pneumoniae. In October 2019, German health authorities reported an outbreak of extensively drug resistant (XDR) K. pneumoniae, carrying the genes encoding for the OXA 48 and NDM 1 carbapenemases and resistant to colistin. This outbreak strain is of concern due to the very few remaining options for the treatment of infected patients. The outbreak affects four hospitals in the northeast of the state of Mecklenburg West Pomerania.
• Italy, Hungary, Greece, Germany, France – ECDC – West Nile virus.  Between 27 September and 3 October 2019, EU Member States reported 29 human cases in Italy (12), Hungary (8), Greece (7), Germany (1) and France (1). No cases were reported from EU neighboring countries. This is the first time that an autochthonous human West Nile virus infection was reported from Germany. The case was reported from Leipzig, Germany. In Italy, a human case was reported from Macerata, an area that has not been affected previously. All other human cases were reported from areas that have been affected previously. This week, four deaths were reported by Greece (2) and Italy (2). In the same week, 15 outbreaks among equids were reported to the Animal Disease Notification System (ADNS) by Germany (5), Greece (3), France (2), Hungary (2), Italy (2) and Spain (1).
• Japan – ECDC – Mass gathering, Rubella, and Measles. No major events have been detected since the previous CDTR as the Rugby World Cup continues. Heavy rains and floods were reported in the western part of the country this week. Updates are provided for outbreaks of rubella and measles. An outbreak of rubella continues in Japan, with 2 196 cases reported in 2019 (as of 22 September 2019). The number of measles cases is decreasing, with 693 cases reported in 2019 (as of 25 September 2019).
• Mexico, Caribbean, America – CDC – Dengue is an ongoing risk in many parts of Central and South America, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Travelers to areas of risk should protect themselves by preventing mosquito bites.
• Myanmar, Angola, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Central African Republic, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Philippines – ECDC – Polio. Circulating vaccine derived poliovirus (cVDPV). Three new cases of cVDPV1 have been reported during this period in Myanmar. Twenty four new cases of cVDPV2 have been reported during this period in Angola (13), Democratic Republic of Congo (7), Central African Republic (2), Nigeria (1) and Ethiopia (1).  Additionally, and according to WHO Disease Outbreak News (DON), two vaccine derived poliovirus type 2 (VDPV2) cases have been reported in the Philippines in September 2019
• Nigeria – CDC,  ECDC –  Yellow fever.  A large, ongoing outbreak of yellow fever in Nigeria began in September 2017. On 1 October 2019, media and local authorities notified an outbreak of yellow fever (YF) in previously non affected Bauchi state in Nigeria, with epicentre in the Yankari Game Reserve of Alkaleri local government area (LGA). Between 29 August and 22 September 2019, 231 suspected YF cases were reported in Nigeria, including 15 deaths (CFR 6%). Of the 231 suspected cases, 13 cases (7%) were presumptive positive by IgM testing. The outbreak is now spread throughout the country. Travelers going to Nigeria should receive vaccination against yellow fever at least 10 days before travel and should take steps to prevent mosquito bites while there.
• Pakistan, Afghanistan – ECDC –  Wild Poliovirus. Since the last polio update published on 6 September 2019 and as of 25 September, 11 new cases of wild poliovirus type 1 have been reported in Pakistan (8) and Afghanistan (3).
• Saudi Arabia – ECDC – MERS CoV.  Since the previous CDTR published on 6 September 2019, Saudi Arabia is the only country that has notified new cases. As of 30 September 2019, Saudi Arabia has reported an increase of four cases and two deaths. So far, 11 of 13 regions in Saudi Arabia have reported 173 cases in 2019, three of which (Quassim, Riyad and Eastern Province) have reported cases in the last seven days.

Law and Culture

• Hong Kong – GOV.UK – The Hong Kong Government has announced that from 5 October onwards, in certain circumstances it may not be permitted for individuals to wear a “facial covering” which might prevent identification. Police officers might require you to remove a facial covering. You should follow the advice of local authorities.
• Papua New Guinea – GOV.AU– It’s illegal to remove surplus war material from PNG. This includes: guns, bullets, aircraft or vehicle parts, other items used during WWII. Check with PNG Customs before buying or attempting to take any war material out of PNG.
• Saudi Arabia – GOV.UK – With the launch of the tourist e visa on 28 September 2019, Saudi Arabia announced new regulations related to public conduct and decency. Men and women are required to refrain from public displays of affection, and avoid using profane language or gestures. Taking pictures or recording videos without permission is not permitted. Visitors to Saudi Arabia should familiarise themselves with public decency laws. Information on important laws and etiquette around dress codes is available to visitors on the  Visit Saudi website.

Natural Disasters and Climate

• Bahamas – GC.CA – Hurricane Dorian swept through northwestern Bahamas as a major hurricane on September 2 and 3, 2019. The storm brought excessive rainfall and violent winds, causing significant damage to buildings and infrastructures on the Grand Bahama and Abaco islands. Severe flooding has affected Marsh Harbor, the main port of the archipelago, where a majority of homes were damaged. Other parts of Abaco have also been destroyed. The Rand Memorial Hospital, in Freeport, has been severely damaged and a field hospital has been set up to provide critical healthcare services.
• Bolivia – GC.CA – Since August 2019, severe wildfires are affecting the Amazon rainforest and the Chiquitania region. New fires are since affecting the regions of Chaco and Cochabamba. Air quality is affected throughout the affected areas. This may have an impact on people suffering from respiratory ailments.
• Iceland – GOV.UK – There is some glacial flooding in Múlakvísl in the south of Iceland and more is expected. The Icelandic Met Office has issued a warning of heavy gas pollution in the area accompanying the flood and have deemed it is unsafe to stop at the river or its source by the glacier’s edge. If you’re in the area and symptoms such as nasal burns or eye irritation occur, you should leave immediately. You should monitor the Icelandic Meteorological Office for updates.
• Ireland – GC.CA – Ireland is subject to wind storms that can cause severe damage to infrastructure. Heavy flooding, fog, rain and snow can have widespread impacts, including the disturbance of essential services such as transportation, power distribution, telecommunication networks and emergency services.
• Japan – GC.CA – Tropical storm Mitag is expected to bring excessive rainfall and violent winds to Honshū, including Tokyo, on October 3 and 4, 2019. It may cause flash flooding and landslides and could severely disrupt the following essential services transportation, power distribution, water and food supply, telecommunications networks, medical care.
• Mariana Islands, Japan, Guam – GDACS – Tropical Cyclone HAGIBIS 19 can have a medium humanitarian impact based on the maximum sustained wind speed, exposed population and vulnerability.
• Mauritania, Senegal, China, India, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, Belize, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Argentina, Chile, Australia, Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Mozambique – GDACS – The drought has lasted for 3 months. Drought indicators suggest anomalies typical of severe to extreme events.
• Northern Marianas – GC.CA – The Northern Marianas are subject to typhoons, typically from June to December, and especially from August to November. The rainy (or monsoon) season extends from July to October. During this period, even small storms can quickly develop into major typhoons. These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services.
• Papua New Guinea – GOV.UK – Mt Ulawun volcano in West New Britain province erupted on 1 October 2019. Hoskins Airport remains open but visitors should check with their airline/travel operator if visiting New Britain.

Other

• Czech Republic – GOV.UK – England take on the Czech Republic in a UEFA Euro 2020 qualifier in Prague on Friday 11 October 2019. If you’re travelling to Prague for the match, check out the GOV.UK dedicated information and advice page for travelling fans in addition to this travel advice. In addition to the Czech Republic v England match, several high profile events are taking place in Prague on 11 and 12 October. The Signal arts festival and a national day of mourning and funeral for the Czech singer Karel Gott are each expected to draw crowds in the tens of thousands into Prague city centre. Public transport will be very busy and may be subject to disruption. If you’re in Prague over the weekend, allow extra time for journeys (particularly to and from the stadium if attending the match) and stay respectful of any mourners you see.
• Slovakia – GOV.UK – Wales face Slovakia in a UEFA Euro 2020 qualifier match in Trnava on Thursday 10 October 2019. If you’re travelling to the game, check out our dedicated information and advice page for travelling fans in addition to this travel advice.

Ebola News

• Democratic Republic of the Congo – ECDC – Ebola. Since the previous CDTR and as of 2 October 2019, the Ministry of Health of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has reported 18 additional confirmed cases and two probable cases. During the same period, nine deaths among confirmed cases were reported. One additional healthcare worker was reported to be among these new cases.The two new probable cases included an infant from Komanda with onset of symptoms on 7 September (died 10 September) and an adult man from Mambasa with onset of syptoms on 21 August (died on 29 August).
• Democratic Republic of the Congo – WHO – Ebola. The Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo continues this week with 20 new confirmed cases reported in North Kivu and Ituri provinces from 25 September to 1 October 2019, versus 29 in the previous week.  Despite overall decreases in the number of cases, there is sustained transmission in Mambasa and Mandima Health Zones, with operational challenges due to ongoing tensions between the community and the response team. The lack of response activities for a full two weeks in Mandima Health Zone has resulted in contacts of EVD cases being lost to follow-up and possible under-reporting of EVD cases.  The last assessment, carried out on 5 August 2019, concluded that the national and regional risk levels remain very high, while global risk levels remain low. Travellers should seek medical advice before travel and should practice good hygiene.
• Tanzania –ECDC , GOV.AU  – Ebola. So far, there has been no new confirmed technical information regarding a death due to an unknown illness in Tanzania. WHO is investigating the case as of September 2019, following unofficial reports that it may be related to Ebola. The limited available official information from Tanzanian authorities represents a challenge for assessing the risk posed by this event. More information: Cases of Undiagnosed Febrile Illness – Tanzania (WHO).

Please note the revision date (mmddyy) of this report, printed on the title of the post, and go to the direct sources listed for the most up-to-date information.  The information in this report may change without prior notice.